Health information

QUESTION: A lengthy but rambling letter from an old friend has us confused
about the state of health of a mutual acquaintance, living back up north
The
letter speaks of “pigeon lung” but we can’t find any mention of this condition
in our home medical advisor
Do you know what she is talking about?

ANSWER: I think so
The disease is also known as “Bird Fancier’s Lung” or
“Pneumonitis of pigeon breeders”
It is a type of pneumonia which is seen in
individuals who breed or care for pigeons
The symptoms of fever, chills,
cough and difficulty in breathing come on about 4 to 6 hours after exposure to
the birds, and is believed to be caused by an allergy or hypersensitivity to
the pigeon
It can be treated with corticosteroids, cortisone like
medications, and will disappear by itself in many cases if contact with the
birds is avoided for 12 to 24 hours
If your friend is the owner of these
animals, it looks like a short lived hobby, for prolonged or repeated contact
can result in chronic lung disease, certainly too high a price to pay for the
enjoyment of raising these graceful creatures.

The material contained here is “FOR INFORMATION ONLY” and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician
Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.

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